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Garrett AT Max#1of 50

Garrett AT Max

The Garrett AT Max is a premium all-terrain metal detector that excels in versatility, durability, and performance across coin, relic, and gold hunting applications.

9.6
Sift ScoreRanked #1 of 50 reviewed · #1 in Relic & All-Terrain
  • Fully waterproof design
  • Wireless Z-Lynk audio
  • Excellent ground balancing
Operating Frequency
13.6 kHz
Waterproof Depth
10 feet (3 meters)
Coil Size
10 x 12 inch DD
Weight
3.03 lbs (1.37 kg)

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01The verdict

The Garrett AT Max is a premium all-terrain metal detector that excels in versatility, durability, and performance across coin, relic, and gold hunting applications. Its waterproof design and wireless audio capability make it a standout choice for serious detectorists willing to invest in a long-term, high-performance tool.

Our scorecard

  • Depth9.4
  • Separation9.2
  • Ergonomics9.5
  • Value9.6

Best forHomesteads, woods and iron-heavy sites

02Specifications

BrandGarrett
CategoryRelic & All-Terrain
Operating Frequency13.6 kHz
Waterproof Depth10 feet (3 meters)
Coil Size10 x 12 inch DD
Weight3.03 lbs (1.37 kg)
Battery Life20-30 hours (AA batteries)

03Pros & cons

What we like

  • Fully waterproof up to 10 feet for underwater hunting
  • Z-Lynk wireless headphone compatibility reduces lag
  • Excellent ground balance for mineralized soils
  • Durable construction suited for harsh environments
  • Versatile for coins, relics, and gold prospecting

What to know

  • Higher price point than entry-level detectors
  • Slightly heavier than some competitor models
  • Learning curve for beginners with advanced settings
  • Standard headphones require included adapter for wired use

04Key features

  1. 01Z-Lynk wireless audio technology
  2. 02Ground Balance Window with Trac Lock
  3. 0310x12 inch DD waterproof coil submersible to 10 feet
  4. 04Iron Audio adjustable discrimination
  5. 05Backlit LCD display with adjustable backlight
  6. 06Built-in frequency (13.6 kHz) with high sensitivity

05Full review

The Garrett AT Max stands as one of the most advanced all-terrain metal detectors available to both weekend hobbyists and seasoned treasure hunters. Built by Garrett, a name long trusted in the metal detecting community, this waterproof detector can be submerged up to ten feet, making it just as capable in rivers, lakes, and surf as it is on dry land. Its Z-Lynk wireless technology allows for instant pairing with compatible wireless headphones, eliminating the lag that plagues many other wireless systems and letting users hear target signals the moment they happen. The detector's rugged construction and 8.5 x 11 inch DD coil make it suited for a wide range of terrains, from mineralized soil to wet sand, without sacrificing depth or sensitivity.

Underneath its weatherproof shell, the AT Max offers a suite of features that cater to detectorists who demand precision and control. The high-resolution iron discrimination system uses 40 segments to help users distinguish between valuable targets and unwanted trash, while the digital target ID scale ranging from 0 to 99 provides clear feedback on what lies beneath the coil. True all-metal mode, adjustable frequency offset to reduce interference from other detectors, and a backlit LCD screen for low-light conditions round out a feature set designed for serious fieldwork. The custom search mode lets users save personalized settings for discrimination and sensitivity, allowing quick adjustments based on changing ground conditions or target preferences without fumbling through menus.

Battery life and durability further distinguish the Garrett AT Max as a workhorse detector built for extended outings. It runs on four AA batteries, offering long hours of operation whether searching for coins in a local park, relics along old homestead sites, or gold in mineral-rich streambeds. The detector's submersible coil and control housing mean that rain, mud, or accidental drops in water won't interrupt a hunting session, a crucial feature for detectorists who refuse to let weather dictate their plans. With its combination of wireless convenience, waterproof reliability, and refined discrimination technology, the Garrett AT Max has earned its reputation as a top-tier choice for anyone serious about metal detecting across varied environments.

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Garrett AT Max

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Sift Score 9.6AT Max
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